International Women's Day 2023 Live Updates: Women Tech Leaders on "DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality"

Aastha Goel, Co-founder & COO of WhizCo

Women are not just breaking the glass ceiling, but building a new sky for all. As women entrepreneurs and leaders, we have a responsibility to inspire and empower other women to follow their dreams and make their mark in the world. This Women's Day, let us celebrate the power of women and pledge to create a future that is truly equal.

Prerna Goel, Co-founder & CMO of WhizCo

Women entrepreneurs are the architects of change, designing a world where gender is no longer a barrier to success. On this International Women's Day, let us celebrate the trailblazing women who are creating a future full of possibilities for generations to come. 

Col. Sanjula Verma, Group VP – Nursing Services, CARE Hospitals Group

On this Women's Day, I am proud to acknowledge the remarkable contribution of women in the field of healthcare. From nurses to doctors, researchers to caregivers, women have been at the forefront of the battle against illness and disease for generations. I am inspired by the countless women who have dedicated their lives to the care and well-being of others. Let us continue to support and empower women in healthcare, and work towards a world where all women have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.

Dr Deepa Thatikonda, Founder, Skillioma

Education is the most powerful weapon in the face of earth that can solve all problems and empower the nation in a growth trajectory. For a million problems, one and only solution is "Education." However, we lost the relevance in education and hence the lack of Higher Order Thinking Skills. What separates a human from a machine is the inherent human intelligence that each of us is blessed with and we are losing it big time. If we don't work on a mission to resolve this NOW, we will be in much deeper crisis going forward. The need of the hour is to bring back relevance & skills in education, make it meaningful, practical and one that brings all-round development of a human. In order to achieve this mission, all education leaders from pre-schools to universities and every educated parent should come forward, join hands genuinely and treat this more like a mission than like a business.

I believe in Mahatma Gandhi's quote - "By education I mean an all-round drawing out of the best in the child and man-body, mind and spirit." ~Mahatma Gandhi

Anupama Katkar, Chairperson, Quick Heal Foundation and Chief of Operational Excellence, Quick Heal Technologies Limited

Women today are conquering new frontiers through their innovative, solution-centric bent of mind. There are several examples within the cybersecurity sector as well where women, through their able leadership, have taken businesses to new heights. Also, it is my strong belief that every woman and young girl in India holds the potential to become a successful entrepreneur, given the right set of opportunities and resources in the form of right education, nutrition, and health. At Quick Heal through our CSR initiative, we fully understand and acknowledge this, which is why many of our programmes are aimed at providing young girls and women with better healthcare, skills and cyber education, a combination that can open up several new avenues for them.

Devita Saraf, Founder - Vu Televisions

The business industry has been transformed by the incredible contributions of women leaders. Despite facing numerous obstacles in a world that has traditionally favoured men, we have shattered barriers and achieved success. Our unique perspective as leaders values empathy, collaboration, and inclusion. Our leadership style prioritizes listening, relationship-building, and community, which leads to a workplace culture that fosters creativity, productivity, and engagement. Through our efforts, we have disrupted outdated systems and transformed industries, advocating for equal pay, better working conditions, and increased opportunities for women. We strive to ensure that future generations have a more equitable and just world. As we continue to lead, we must remember the power of our voices and actions, and inspire and uplift one another. Our goal is to ensure that every woman has the chance to reach her full potential, and together, we can create a brighter and more prosperous future for all. 

Krutika Lal, Co-founder and CMO of Aretto

By providing access to education, eliminating bias in recruitment and hiring processes, encouraging entrepreneurship, and improving work-life balance, we can break down traditional barriers and create opportunities for women to excel in fields that were previously dominated by men. As a female co-founder of a tech and design-led kids footwear brand, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of digital technology. We need to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and work together to ensure that everyone has an equal chance to thrive in our digital world.

Leela Suvada, Manager, Software QA, Engineering, Barracuda Networks

I am passionate about using technology to make a difference in the world. One of the most effective ways to inspire more women to pursue tech careers is to show them role models they can relate to. Employers can demonstrate the significant impact made by female professionals to the success of the company, highlighting successful women by showcasing their work, acknowledging their achievements, and increasing the visibility of their accomplishments. All this will be a source of inspiration and motivation for other women. Training and mentorship programs that focus on the needs of women will also help to support and recognize their potential and career goals – especially if they help women to progress into more senior or managerial roles, where they can become role models for others. 

Dr Vibha Tripathi, Founder of Boon

Female entrepreneurs are quickly seizing the spotlight in the nation’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. While it is encouraging to see more women in business leadership roles breaking down barriers, it is vital to ensure that this upward trend remains unimpeded. In order for India to become the largest global center for entrepreneurs and the startup ecosystem, everyone should have equal access to resources and opportunities. I envision female business owners in 2023 advancing their personal growth, broadening their comfort level with risk-taking, and pushing their personal boundaries. Hoping to see more women in water-tech or other tech-oriented start-ups in the near future. 

Sheena Sakhuja, Deputy Vice President and Head – Corporate Impact

While it was not unusual to see women take an active role in the urban economic landscape, it has now started to get mirrored in the rural scenario as well. Women running grocery shops, tailoring shops, and managing their dairy farms are common sights in Tier-2 and beyond locations. And today I would like to celebrate this spirit of entrepreneurship that has thrived in the hinterlands of India, despite the multitude of social, economic, and cultural barriers stacked against them.